When venturing to new lands, Spanish Conquistadors arrived to the now Yucatan Peninsula, which had been long inhabited by the Mayan people. There were no interpreters on the boat with the Spanish, so they consistently asked the Mayan people what this country was called. The Spanish began calling the new land “Yucatan Peninsula” because Yucatan in Mayan means “I don’t understand you.” This example of miscommunication still exists on the map.

The success of Hugh Chatham is dependent upon clear communication, and our work is much more complex than naming a piece of land. Our patients rely on us to have the equipment and materials needed to provide the safest, quality care, no matter what. Our Materials Management department plays an instrumental role in the delivery of our Vision, supplying us with the means necessary to deliver the best patient experience and outcomes. This week’s Hugh Chatham Way Highlight focuses on Materials Management Buyer, Melinda Pinnix — a detail-oriented individual who focuses intently on communication with every Hugh Chatham department, creating the opportunity for life-changing moments with the smallest, or largest, of orders.

Nicole Blevins, a Buyer for Materials Management said this about Melinda, “Melinda is an invaluable coworker and teammate. She is kind, hardworking and will always share a laugh. She has helped immensely through the Covid-19 pandemic getting supplies for the departments and offices. She is always there to lend a hand and help anyone in need.”

Thank you, Melinda, for supporting the needs of over 1,000 team members and hundreds of community members every day. We are blessed to have you as a part of our Hugh Chatham family!

– Paul